This year, the Sisters of St. Basil the Great celebrate the 80th Annual Pilgrimage in honor of our Lady of Perpetual Help. Therefore, it is quite appropriate that the original icon that was presented to the Sisters by Pope Pius XI in 1934, will be the centerpiece of this year’s sacred journey of the Pilgrimage.
The Sisters of St. Basil invite all to join them under the title of “Theotokos, Fountain of Mercy”, as they follow the direction of Pope Francis’ message of mercy on Divine Mercy Sunday, April 7, 2013:
Together let us pray to the Virgin Mary that she helps us … to walk in faith and charity, ever trusting in the Lord’s mercy; He always awaits us, loves us, has pardoned us with His Blood and pardons us every time we go to Him to ask His forgiveness. Let us trust in His mercy!
As always, Pilgrimage will offer the Divine Liturgy of the Byzantine Catholic Church, Matins, Vespers, the sacrament of reconciliation, healing and anointing services, and other services in honor of the Mother of God. In addition, there will be many beautiful processions, activities for children and teens, and pastoral counseling. Between scheduled events, pilgrims find solace in walking the beautiful grounds of Mount St. Macrina, visiting the many shrines, and enjoying the companionship of family and friends who share a common purpose.
The Pilgrimage provides for the diverse spiritual needs of many pilgrims who frequent this major unifying event in the life of the Byzantine Catholic Church. Its participants include clergy and faithful from across the country. It holds the distinction of being the oldest and the largest Byzantine Catholic Pilgrimage in the United States.